Switch-up from mainstream to natural skincare: Why your face might freak out?

11/02/2024 | Marzena Hallam

So, you've ditched the drugstore brands and embraced the world of natural skincare – congrats! You're on a path to glow-ier, more sustainable skin. But hold on, why does your face suddenly feel like it's throwing a mini tantrum? Don't worry, it's not you, it's the transition!

Think of your skin like a picky roommate. Used to harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, it might not take kindly to the gentler, plant-based ingredients in natural products. This adjustment period can cause some temporary freakouts like dryness, breakouts, or even redness. Blame it on your skin detoxing and readjusting to its new, kinder routine.

Here's the good news: these freakouts are usually temporary, lasting anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Just like any good roommate, your skin needs time to get used to the new vibe.

Switching to natural skincare initially disrupts your skin's balance due to several factors. Often, the mainstream products can damage the protective skin barrier, leading to dryness and a shift in the microbiome causing breakouts. They can trigger irritation due to individual sensitivities and pH changes. Finally, a "detoxification" phase when moving from mainstream to natural products can result in temporary purging as the skin sheds built-up ingredients.

Below is a typical chronological transition from mainstream to natural skincare can be applicable to various skin types and ages, but the specific experience may vary among individuals.

SKIN CHANGES WHEN YOU SWITCH PRODUCTS

Skin Types: While the stages of adjustment remain consistent, individuals with different skin types (dry, oily, combination, sensitive) may experience varying degrees of reaction during the transition. For example, those with sensitive skin might experience more pronounced initial reactions compared to those with less sensitive skin.
Ages: The transition process may also differ based on age-related factors. Younger skin may adapt more quickly to natural products, while mature skin might take longer to show visible improvements due to pre-existing skin conditions or signs of aging.
Individual Variations: Additionally, individual factors such as genetics, lifestyle, environmental exposure, and pre-existing skin conditions can influence how the skin responds to the transition. Some individuals may have a smoother transition with minimal discomfort, while others may experience more challenges along the way.

Here's how to help your skin through this transition:

Hydration is key: Natural products often prioritize the power of plants, which can sometimes be less moisture-intensive than their synthetic counterparts. Combat this by becoming a hydration hero! Up your water intake and treat your skin to a layer of gentle, natural moisturizer. Think of it as giving your skin a refreshing sip after a long hike in the fresh air.

Embrace the Power of Cleanse: While some mainstream cleansers strip the skin, natural cleansers focus on gentle nourishment. This might mean your skin feels less "squeaky clean" at first. Give it time to adjust, and you'll find your natural balance without dryness.

Exfoliate Gently: Instead of harsh scrubs, opt for natural exfoliants like rice powder or oats. These buff away dead skin without being abrasive, leaving your skin smooth and radiant this will assist the transition process.

Sun's the Boss: No matter what products you use, sun protection is key. Choose a natural, reef-safe sunscreen to shield your skin and keep it looking youthful.

Patch test, always: This may seem tedious, but applying a small amount of a new product on your inner arm helps avoid full-blown facial freakouts.

Be patient: Don't expect overnight results. Give your skin time to adjust, and soon you'll be reaping the benefits of glowing, healthy skin naturally!

Remember, this transition is temporary and totally worth it. With a little patience and the right tools, your skin will adjust and thank you for the natural love!